A decade of diabetes challenges: the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations in Brazil (2013-2023)

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic and progressive disease with high prevalence worldwide, exerting significant strain on public health systems. In Brazil, DM affects approximately 9.2% of the population, leading to a high rate of complications and hospitalizations that place a substantial financial burden on the Unified Health System (SUS). This study aims to analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations due to DM among adults and the elderly in Brazil from 2013 to 2023, examining regional variations and financial impacts on the healthcare system. Using data from the Hospital Information System of SUS (SIH/SUS) accessed via DATASUS, a descriptive analysis was conducted. Variables such as age, sex, race, diagnosis, type of hospitalization, and mortality rates were analyzed across the Brazilian regions. Results revealed 1,477,256 DM-related hospitalizations, with the Northeast and Southeast regions accounting for the majority of cases. An overall 1.83% reduction in hospitalizations was observed, alongside a 73.27% increase in the average cost per admission. Mortality rates were highest in the Northeast and Southeast regions, and urgency admissions prevailed. The findings indicate that while hospitalizations have slightly declined, DM prevalence and associated healthcare costs have continued to rise. The prevalence of urgent hospitalizations and high mortality rates highlight deficiencies in DM management and early intervention. This underscores the need for policies to strengthen primary care, enhance prevention, and support early diagnosis and management, which could mitigate complications, improve patient outcomes, and reduce hospital care costs.